What does a chiropractor do?

If you’ve ever dealt with back pain, neck stiffness, headaches, or joint discomfort, chances are someone has suggested you see a chiropractor. But what exactly does a chiropractor do—and how do chiropractic treatments work?

At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we believe in empowering our patients through knowledge. Chiropractic care is a safe, natural, and drug-free approach to health that focuses on improving your body’s function by aligning the spine and restoring balance to the nervous system. Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or someone dealing with chronic pain, chiropractic care can be a powerful part of your wellness journey.

Let’s dive into what chiropractors do, the science behind spinal adjustments, and what you can expect during your first visit with us in Tucson.

The Role of a Chiropractor

Chiropractors are licensed healthcare professionals who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, with an emphasis on manual adjustments and spinal manipulation. The goal is to restore proper alignment to the spine and improve how the nervous system communicates with the rest of the body.

At the core of chiropractic philosophy is the belief that misalignments in the spine—called subluxations—can disrupt the body’s ability to heal itself. These subluxations can be caused by physical stress, poor posture, injuries, repetitive motions, or even emotional tension.

• Reduce pain and discomfort
• Improve joint mobility and function
• Alleviate pressure on nerves
• Enhance the body’s natural healing abilities
• Promote overall wellness and balance

Chiropractic care is often associated with back and neck pain, but its benefits go far beyond that. At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we treat a wide variety of conditions, including:

• Lower back pain
• Neck pain and stiffness
• Sciatica
• Headaches and migraines
• Whiplash from car accidents
• Shoulder and arm pain
• Hip, knee, and ankle pain
• Sports and repetitive motion injuries
• Poor posture or spinal imbalances
• Pregnancy-related back pain

We also provide chiropractic care for animals, including horses and dogs—a unique specialty that allows us to help your four-legged companions feel and move better too.

Chiropractic adjustments, also called spinal manipulations, involve applying controlled force to a specific joint to restore its proper alignment and function. These adjustments are typically performed using the chiropractor’s hands or specialized instruments, depending on the patient’s condition and preference.

When a spinal joint is misaligned, it can affect nearby nerves, muscles, and other tissues. This may lead to pain, reduced mobility, and inflammation. By gently correcting the misalignment, chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pressure, restore mobility, and reduce discomfort.

Research shows that chiropractic care is especially effective for musculoskeletal issues, including acute and chronic lower back pain, tension headaches, and neck pain. It’s a non-invasive treatment that often reduces or eliminates the need for medications or surgery.

If you’ve never been to a chiropractor before, it’s normal to feel a little uncertain. At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we take the time to explain everything thoroughly so you feel comfortable and confident in your care.

Your first appointment begins with a one-on-one consultation. We’ll ask about your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and any previous injuries or conditions. This helps us get a complete picture of your overall wellness and identify the root cause of your discomfort—not just the symptoms.

Next, we perform a thorough physical exam. This may include:

• Postural analysis
• Range of motion testing
• Neurological and orthopedic tests
• Palpation (feeling the spine and muscles for tightness or imbalances)
• If necessary, we may also recommend X-rays or other imaging to get a clearer view of your spine or affected joints.

Based on your consultation and exam findings, we’ll explain what’s going on in your body and how chiropractic care can help. We’ll go over your customized treatment plan, which may include spinal adjustments, soft tissue work, stretches, exercises, or lifestyle recommendations.

We always welcome your questions and will walk you through the process step by step.

If appropriate, we may perform your first chiropractic adjustment during this visit. You’ll be positioned comfortably on a padded table, and the adjustment will be performed gently and precisely. You may hear a popping or cracking sound—this is just gas being released from the joint, similar to cracking your knuckles.

Most patients feel relief after their first adjustment, although some may experience mild soreness (like after a good workout). This is completely normal and typically subsides within 24 hours.

Chiropractic care isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. Some patients may only need a few sessions for short-term relief, while others benefit from ongoing care to maintain alignment and prevent future issues.

At Kishbaugh Chiropractic, we focus on:

• Restoring mobility
• Reducing pain and inflammation
• Supporting long-term posture and function
• Helping you live an active, pain-free lifestyle

We also work in tandem with other providers if needed, such as massage therapists or medical doctors, to ensure you receive well-rounded care.

Why Choose Kishbaugh Chiropractic in Tucson?

We’ve been serving the Tucson community for over 20 years with compassionate, personalized care. Thousands of patients—from weekend warriors to retirees—have trusted us to help them move better and feel better without relying on medications or invasive procedures.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced, licensed chiropractor with decades of hands-on practice
• Specialized animal chiropractic care for horses and dogs
• Gentle, effective treatments tailored to your needs
• A whole-body approach focused on your lifestyle and wellness goals
• A warm, welcoming environment where you’re never rushed

Whether you’re suffering from chronic pain or simply want to maintain your health, we’re here to help you feel your best.

Ready to Start Your Chiropractic Journey?

Chiropractic care is more than just pain relief—it’s about helping your body function at its best. If you’re curious about how chiropractic care can help you or your pet, we’d love to talk with you.

📍 Visit us at Kishbaugh Chiropractic in Tucson

📞 Call us to schedule your consultation

🐾 Ask about our animal chiropractic services for horses and dogs!

Kishbaugh Chiropractic – Helping You and Your Animals Move Better, Feel Better, and Live Well.